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Committee hears ADA access upgrades and confirms CTN closed captioning in galleries
Summary
Staff reported progress on ADA work in the Capitol and Legislative Office Building — elevator/escalator upgrades, new ramps, automatic door openers and restroom adjustments — and said CTN has added closed captioning for gallery viewers.
The committee reviewed ADA assessment reports and recent accessibility upgrades to the Capitol and the Legislative Office Building, with staff emphasizing a balance between historic preservation and better access for people with mobility or hearing disabilities.
"Our ultimate goal is to make this building, the Capitol and the capital complex, as accessible as possible," Michael Harrington, Executive Director for JCLM, said. He and project staff listed completed and planned measures including elevator and people‑mover upgrades, temporary and planned ramps for the South Lobby, automatic bathroom door openers, and recommendations to adjust countertop heights and restroom fixtures where feasible.
Staff noted they are consulting with the State Independent Living Council and historical consultants to ensure accessibility improvements are respectful of historic fabric. When members raised specific gallery and hearing‑room access concerns, staff said they are evaluating tasteful ramping solutions and other modifications that avoid damaging historic features where possible.
On hearing accessibility, staff confirmed CTN’s feed now includes closed captioning available on the gallery screens in both the Senate and House, which committee members welcomed as a practical accommodation for visitors with hearing impairment.
The committee encouraged continued engagement with disability advocates and asked staff to document completed ADA improvements and outstanding recommendations for future meetings.
